Thorleif Schjelderup
Norwegian ski jumper and Olympic champion
Competed in ski jumping, winning a gold medal at the 1948 St. Moritz Olympics in the large hill event. Authored books on skiing and the sport's techniques, contributing to the literature of winter sports. Continued involvement in skiing beyond competition years, promoting the sport's development in Norway.
Won gold in ski jumping at the 1948 Olympics
Authored several books on skiing techniques
Other People Born on January 20th
Jared Waerea-Hargreaves
Rugby league player, Sydney Roosters
Born
January 20th, 1989 37 years ago
Professional rugby league player, recognized for contributions to the sport in New Zealand and Australia. Played predominantly as a prop, achieving significant success with the Sydney Roosters in the National Rugby League (NRL). Made notable appearances for the New Zealand national rugby league team, including participating in the 2013 Rugby League World Cup. Built a reputation for physicality and consistency on the field.
Continue ReadingJohn Michael Montgomery
Country singer and songwriter
Born
January 20th, 1965 61 years ago
Born in 1965, this artist gained prominence in the 1990s within the country music scene. With a blend of honky-tonk and pop-inspired sounds, this singer-songwriter has released several chart-topping albums and singles. The debut album 'Life's a Dance' included hits that showcased a traditional country style mixed with modern influences. This artist's contributions helped shape the contemporary country genre during that era.
Continue ReadingCalum Chambers
English footballer at Arsenal FC
Born
January 20th, 1995 31 years ago
Professional footballer played as a defender. Began career at Southampton, progressing through the youth ranks to make senior appearances. Signed by Arsenal in July 2014, contributing to the team's defense over multiple seasons. Played on loan for Middlesbrough and Fulham, gaining further experience in the Premier League and Championship. Represented England at various youth levels, showcasing talent in international competitions.
Continue ReadingIra Newble
Professional basketball player in NBA
Born
January 20th, 1975 51 years ago
Professional basketball player participated in the NBA and international leagues. Played for the Cleveland Cavaliers and the Seattle SuperSonics in the NBA. Had a significant career in European basketball, competing in various leagues and achieving success with multiple teams. Represented the United States in international competitions and was part of the team that won the gold medal at the 2003 Pan American Games.
Continue ReadingGōgen Yamaguchi
Martial artist and karate master
Born
January 20th, 1909 117 years ago
Died
1989 37 years ago — 80 years old
Born in 1909, a prominent figure in karate, establishing the Goju-Ryu style. Began martial arts training at a young age, later studying under notable masters. In 1931, opened a dojo in China, contributing to the spread of karate. Returned to Japan post-World War II and played a significant role in popularizing karate worldwide. Developed a system of training that influences many practitioners today.
Continue ReadingFredrik Strømstad
Norwegian footballer, former midfielder
Born
January 20th, 1982 44 years ago
Born in 1982, a professional footballer played predominantly as a midfielder. Played for clubs such as Aalesund, IK Start, and Brann. Accumulated experience in various leagues, contributing to team dynamics and performance. Represented Norway at different levels, including participation in the national youth teams.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on May 28th
Oleg Grigoryevich Makarov
Russian engineer and astronaut
Born
January 6th, 1933 93 years ago
Died
May 28th, 2003 23 years ago — 70 years old
An engineer and astronaut, contributed to space exploration through various missions. Participated in the Soyuz program and was a key figure in conducting scientific research in orbit. Flew on three space missions, including a significant role aboard Soyuz 10, which aimed to dock with the Salyut 1 space station, and Soyuz 12. Makarov's work advanced the understanding of the effects of space travel on the human body.
Continue ReadingEddie Romero
Filipino film director and producer
Born
July 7th, 1924 102 years ago
Died
May 28th, 2013 13 years ago — 88 years old
Contributed to the Filipino film industry as a director, producer, and screenwriter. Directed several films that garnered both national and international acclaim. Collaborated with various actors and filmmakers, establishing a legacy in Philippine cinema. Received recognition at prestigious film festivals, showcasing Filipino culture through cinematic storytelling.
Continue ReadingEric Morecambe
Comedian and actor in The Morecambe and Wise Show
Born
May 14th, 1926 100 years ago
Died
May 28th, 1984 42 years ago — 58 years old
An English comedian and actor gained prominence through a variety partnership with Ernie Wise. The duo achieved immense popularity with their television program, The Morecambe and Wise Show, which ran for over a decade and became a staple of British entertainment. The show featured musical guests, comedy sketches, and famous Christmas specials. Morecambe's distinctive style and quick wit contributed to the duo's comedic success. Additionally, a successful solo career included appearances in films and stage productions. Despite health issues, continued to perform, leaving a lasting legacy in British comedy.
Continue ReadingEdward VIII of the United Kingdom
Former King of the United Kingdom
Born
1894 132 years ago
Died
May 28th, 1972 54 years ago — 78 years old
Ascended to the throne in January 1936 but abdicated in December 1936 in favor of his brother due to his desire to marry Wallis Simpson, an American divorcée. The abdication marked the first voluntary resignation of a British monarch. After abdication, served as Governor of the Bahamas during World War II. Lived in France for many years, remaining a controversial figure in British history.
Continue ReadingMark Eaton
Basketball player and sportscaster
Born
January 24th, 1957 69 years ago
Died
May 28th, 2021 5 years ago — 64 years old
Played for the Utah Jazz in the National Basketball Association (NBA) from 1982 to 1993. Renowned for defensive skills, earned the NBA Defensive Player of the Year award twice. After retirement, transitioned to sports broadcasting, providing analysis for various networks.
Continue ReadingMary Lou Williams
American jazz pianist and composer
Born
May 8th, 1910 116 years ago
Died
May 28th, 1981 45 years ago — 71 years old
A prominent figure in jazz music, contributed significantly to the development of various jazz styles. Williams performed with notable musicians including Duke Ellington and Benny Goodman. She composed a wide range of pieces, including sacred music and big band scores. Williams also played a pivotal role in mentoring younger musicians, helping to shape the next generation of jazz artists. Throughout her career, she worked to elevate the genre and bridge the gap between traditional jazz and its modern forms.
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